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Russia expects all of Madagascar’s political forces to accept election outcome

The first round of the presidential election in Madagascar took place on November 7, 2018, while the run-off election was held on December 19

MOSCOW, January 9. /TASS/. Moscow expects all of Madagascar’s political forces to accept the results of the runoff presidential election, the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Wednesday, adding that Russia was ready to boost cooperation with Madagascar.

"We hope that all of Madagascar’s political forces will accept the runoff election results and will not let the situation in the country deteriorate," the statement reads.

The Russian Foreign Ministry also pointed out that according to domestic and foreign experts, there had been no serious irregularities during the election.

The statement also emphasized Moscow’s "readiness to continue boosting friendly ties and multifaceted cooperation between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Madagascar."

The first round of the presidential election in Madagascar took place on November 7, 2018, while the run-off election was held on December 19. Andry Rajoelina, a former head of the country’s transitional administration, won the election receiving 55.66% of the vote. Former President of Madagascar Marc Ravalomanana gained 44.34% and his representatives made allegations about large-scale election rigging.

However, on January 8, Madagascar’s Constitutional Court proclaimed Rajoelina winner of the presidential vote and rejected all of Ravalomanana’s claims.

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